Camfil Air Pollution Control is urging manufacturers to pay closer attention to the health and safety risks linked to dust generated during the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, citing respiratory dangers and fire hazards in a new blog post released March 31.
The industrial air filtration company warns that the surge in EV battery production has created new occupational risks due to airborne particles such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and graphite. These materials can be hazardous when inhaled and pose combustible dust risks if not properly managed, the company said.
Workplace exposure under scrutiny
“Many in the industry are unaware of the dangers lurking in the air of EV battery manufacturing plants,” said Kyle Warner, automotive and e-mobility segment manager at Camfil APC. “Implementing effective dust collection systems is not just a regulatory requirement but a crucial step in safeguarding worker health and ensuring operational efficiency.”
Camfil’s warning highlights both chronic and acute risks: exposure to toxic dust can cause respiratory illness and long-term diseases, while combustible particles increase the likelihood of fires or explosions on production floors.
Call for targeted filtration systems
The company is calling on manufacturers to deploy custom dust collection systems that address the specific hazards of battery production lines. According to Camfil, controlling dust at the source not only protects employees but also helps prevent contamination of products and avoids unplanned downtime or regulatory penalties.
The message is part of Camfil’s broader effort to support clean air initiatives in industrial environments, especially in fast-growing sectors like electric mobility.